Support Our 1870s Capstone Film

We are Peshtigo Productions, a student film team planning our capstone narrative film. We want to tell a story that lingers in the minds of our audience and leaves an impact. Our story explores the journey of healing from tragedy and was first inspired by a widely unknown wildfire in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, in 1871.

Since this story takes place in the 1870s, production will be much more complex and costly than many short films. We hope to raise $2000 to pay for period costumes, props, and for food/travel expenses for shoot days at AuGlaize Village--a reenactment village in Defiance, Ohio. We are thankful for any support you are able to give!

Our major costs include food for cast and crew, gas money for traveling to and from our location, as well as period-appropriate costumes and props.

Story Synopsis

The year is 1871. John lives alone in the two-story cabin he built himself. Ever since his wife, Ada, passed away six months ago, he has been stuck in a cycle of grief. When two orphans show up on John’s doorstep, he assumes there’s been a mistake. The official accompanying them tells him they are the children he and his wife had sent for over six months ago. Reluctantly, he agrees to take them, but only for a few days until they can be relocated. John desires to honor his wife’s wishes, but doesn’t want to keep the orphans forever. To save them from being shipped off on an “orphan train,” John must find a good family to take them in before the children become emotionally attached.

The Crew

Elise Masters - Producer

Carolyne Paschal - Writer, Director

Joel Rodgers - Cinematographer

Jameson Chesser - Camera Op, Colorist

Isaac Maas - Sound Designer, Editor